“2022: A Year in Review” a Message from BFT Mastclimbing CEO Andy Perry

2022 was a year of great challenges, but even greater triumphs.

The pandemic created product shortages everywhere. Inflation was skyrocketing in wood and concrete. There were shortages in drivers, engineers, labourers and all other building trades. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) issued new safety guidance for mast climbers.

It was in the midst of all of this that BFT pulled together, improved equipment, forged new partnerships, challenged the scaffolding status quo, and even set new records for utilisation.

Overcoming the Labour Shortage

BFT felt price increase pressures, but as a rental business, our exposure was limited. We felt the pressure from labour shortages more acutely.

Some of our drivers stayed with us and some did not. Some left and then returned to BFT. Whilst other businesses frown upon re-employment, we embrace it. Sometimes an employee has to go look elsewhere. If they want to come back, we welcome them and the experience they have gained.

Shortages of materials and labour meant that, although BFT’s order book was strong, many projects were delayed. That was until May when all sites decided to start. At the same time.

Thanks to the coordination and organisation of our team we were able to deliver, despite the challenging timing.

Throughout the year, we heard from main contractors, time and time again, about the pressure they were under, and how mast climbing work platforms helped.

With labour shortages and cost increasing for scaffolding, mast climbing work platforms (MCWPs) helped to get their projects moving.

Responding to The HSE Safety Alert

In May we were contacted by the HSE with concerns about the safety of MCWPs. As industry leaders we took on board the concerns of the HSE and quickly ensured our fleet was fully compliant with the new standards.

A massive effort from all departments addressed all concerns in record time. Now, thanks to our continued work in this area, we have the safest and only fully compliant fleet of mast climbers in the UK.

Because mast climbers are our core business, we have the experience, engineering support, and supply chain to ensure we can react to these changes in real time.

Setting New Records

From mid-year, we have seen our order bank, intake, and “work in hand” increase exponentially.

“Equipment on hire” has also increased. Utilisation went from a low of nearly 50% to a high of over 75% in 2022 - a new record.

2022 also saw the re-launch of our dedicated Hoist department. Over £1m was invested in this department throughout the year. We saw our fleet utilisation go from 0 to 95% in Q2 and Q3. Our hoist fleet represents quality and value. We are very excited about this new offering.

As we challenge the industry bias for scaffolding, we see more and more companies realise the benefits of mast climbers. From the optimal positioning for tradespeople which prevents musculoskeletal injury to the cost savings and setup efficiency – there are many strengths of mast climbers that the industry is starting to recognise.

This is helping residents in high-rise residential buildings during the nationwide recladding efforts. Whereas scaffolding blocks sunlight and traps heat during hot summer months, mast climbers leave residents relatively undisturbed.

Looking Forward to 2023

As we start 2023 demand has increased again.

We started 2022 with 750 MCWPs on hire. We started 2023 with over 1,200 mast climbers on hire and utilisation approaching 80%. Partnerships are forming and others continue to cement as we deliver the best service available.

But we keep hearing about recession. Whilst we are by no means complacent, demand for our products shows no signs of slowing down.

We are incredibly excited. Our order bank is stronger than ever. Our fleet is in top shape. Our dedicated engineering staff and facilities are paying dividends. Our sales team is delivering again and again.

So others may talk of recession but BFT will continue to strive forward.

We are looking to serving our clients, forming new partnerships, and continuing to help the industry build more economically and safely. We also hope to change perception, and overcome the industries bias for scaffolding, which often is not the best choice for residents, workers, or clients.

Here’s to a great year.

Andy Perry

Understanding the Government Code of Remediation

The Government Code of Remediation is structured into four parts: the scope; undertaking remediation; living with remediation; and general compliance. Each part addresses key aspects of cladding remediation projects, to mitigate fire safety risks that are present within buildings that feature external cladding whilst ensuring the safety and satisfaction of residents. It applies to buildings regardless of occupancy levels, whether fully, partially, or temporarily occupied.

Resident-Centric Approach

The Code puts residents at the heart of remediation. It is a direct response to the Grenfell tragedy, designed to protect residents from potential fire hazards and ensure their concerns are acknowledged throughout the remediation process.

Roles, Responsibilities And Accountability

The Code mandates that roles and responsibilities related to remediation must be clearly outlined and understood by all parties involved in the project. This includes contractors, developers, building owners, tenants, residents, and management companies, so each party knows its duties and is held accountable. Parties involved in the project cannot avoid Code compliance by delegating or subcontracting their obligations.

Effective Communication and Active Engagement

It’s stated in the Code that good communication needs to be maintained from the outset of the project so that residents remain informed and sufficient transparency is achieved. Proper channels should be implemented to ensure that residents can meaningfully engage in the decision-making process. The Code acknowledges potential language barriers and encourages the use of electronic forums to ensure information is disseminated efficiently. Residents should be kept up-to-date with project developments, enabling them to contribute and participate in the design and delivery of the project.

Minimising Impact On Residents

A significant focus within the Code is on minimising the impact of remedial works on residents. Contractors and developers are expected to take measures to reduce disturbances from on-site activity, including noise, dust, and general inconvenience so that disturbances to the residents are kept to a minimum. Balancing health and safety considerations with cost and time factors is another key pillar of Part 3 of the Code. The goal is to create the least inconvenience to the residents and achieve potential cost savings for contractors and developers.

Mental and Physical Health Of Residents

Acknowledging the potential impact on residents' mental and physical health, the Code mandates careful consideration and documentation of these aspects throughout recladding projects. This additional step of record-keeping holds parties accountable for their actions and highlights the seriousness of their responsibilities.

Revaluating Your Access Method

The Government Code of Remediation sets a high standard for remediation projects with a key goal to minimise the effect recladding has on the residents. The core objective of the Code revolves around mitigating the impact on residents' homes and common facilities, while concurrently prioritising the safety and security of the building and its inhabitants.

In this context, the Code calls into question the appropriateness of using scaffolding for extended periods. A two-year presence of scaffolding, according to the principles outlined in the Code, appears incongruent with the commitment to minimise impact and ensure safety, particularly concerning security issues and prolonged inconveniences for residents.